France left it late against Romania, but it was worth the wait for the home fans as Dimitri Payet produced a stunning late winner in the Euro 2016 opener in Paris.
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Dimitri Payet scored a brilliant late winner as hosts and tournament favourites France got off to a winning start at Euro 2016 against Romania in the opening game in Paris.
It was a moment of magic by Payet, who illuminated a largely anxious and frustrating night for Les Bleus which, at times, threatened to end in bitter disappointment as Romania proved resilient opponents.
After the Stade de France crowd were entertained by French DJ David Guetta, a rousing rendition of the Marseillaise should have spurred France into a roaring start in the French capital.
Instead it was an nervy and disjointed display by Didier Deschamps' men, and Romania almost capitalised in the fourth minute when goalkeeper Hugo Lloris made a superb reaction save from point blank range from Nicolai Stanciu, who should have scored.
That forced France into action and their best chance of the first 45 minutes fell to Antoine Griezmann, but the Atletico Madrid forward could only head against the post.
Striker Olivier Giroud was guilty of several missed chances too, as man of the match Payet crafted several openings for the Arsenal striker, whose wayward efforts were the source of much frustration among the home fans.
Romania, sensing a shock result could be within their grasp, should have gone ahead ten minutes into the second half when Bogdan Stancu miscued his volley wide after finding space in the France box.
France took the lead in the 57th minute through Giroud, who launched himself hopefully at a cross from the right and nodded in off the back of his head after Romania goalkeeper Ciprian Tatarasanu failed to claim.
But France's lead lasted only 8 minutes, with Stancu scoring from the penalty spot after Patrice Evra capped a terrible performance by tripping him moments earlier to concede the spot kick.
With the game drifting towards a 1-1 draw, Payet etched himself into France folklore with a sensational late winer, cutting inside onto his left foot and arrowing an unstoppable shot into the top corner from 25 yards, sending France supporters into delirium.
10 cities hosting the UEFA EURO 2016
The European Championship will be held in France between 10 June and 10 July. From Paris to Marseille, the matches will take place in 10 cities overall. Take a look at what they have to offer.
Image: picture-alliance/dpa/G. Horcajuelo
Saint-Denis
The first match takes place at the Stade de France in the Saint-Denis district of Paris. The 2016 European Championship trophy is placed in front of the Basilica of St Denis. Completed in 1144, it is considered the first Gothic church. Marie Antoinette is among the monarchs buried there.
Image: picture-alliance/dpa/M.Euler
Lens
A diamond in the rough, this city in northern France has been reinventing itself in recent years. The Louvre-Lens art museum was inaugurated in 2012 and is built on the site of an old coal mine. The city’s abandoned industrial complexes (pictured) add to its unique character by acknowledging its past.
Image: picture-alliance/dpa/B. Pascal
Bordeaux
Called the "Pearl of Aquitaine", Bordeaux is renowned for its beauty and its wine (two thirds of French wine comes from this southwest region of France). The "Miroir d’eau" (mirror of water) is at the heart of the city, reflecting the Place de la Bourse - twice the beauty.
Image: picture-alliance/dpa/D.Thierry
Marseille
Marseille has an energetic vibe. Despite being France’s second largest city, it has avoided becoming a tourist trap and boasts both a maritime and an urban feel. Pictured is the stunning Cathédrale de la Major.
Image: picture-alliance/dpa/E.Tschaen
Paris
Anyone visiting the French capital will encounter the most renowned landmarks, but explorers can make many surprising discoveries beyond the Eiffel Tower. From the city’s iconic sites to contemporary art in front of the Centre Pompidou (pictured), Paris has something for everyone.
Image: picture-alliance/dpa/J. Kalaene
Nice
The clear waters, brilliant sunlight and pebbly beaches of Nice have drawn tourists for centuries. Inspiration for artists like Chagall and Matisse, this city on the French Riviera holds many treasures. From its fish markets to the Chagall museum’s astounding collection, Nice lives up to its name "Nice la belle".
Image: picture-alliance/dpa/A. Hall
Lille
Once a center of mining, Lille is a university city now known for its lively character and cuisine. The Alsatian architecture provides a charming backdrop for a daytime stroll.
Image: picture-alliance/dpa/S.Jerry
Toulouse
Located on the River Garonne, Toulouse is called the "Pink City" due to the color of its terracotta brick architecture. Home to the largest space center in Europe, Toulouse Space Center, the city’s origins go back to at least the eighth century BC. Pictured is the view over the magnificent Place du Capitole.
Image: picture-alliance/dpa/D. Becus
Lyon
Situated between the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon has a relaxing vibe. Famous for its wine and cuisine, L'Auberge du Pont de Collonges (pictured) is one of the city’s Michelin star restaurants. Between the old city, the boulevards lined with shops, and the unassuming atmosphere, there is hardly any place more French.
Image: picture-alliance/dpa/I. Langsdon
Saint-Etienne
Football is huge in Saint-Etienne. But this city in the Loire valley has many other surprising delights. Its specialty is chocolate, and among the city’s fine examples of modern architecture is the Cité du Design (pictured).